8 Tips for a Successful Hunting Trip

Hunting provides an excellent opportunity to relax, connect with other hunters, and enjoy nature. However, the modernization of hunting methods, new and unfamiliar surroundings, and fickle weather often get in the way of a successful trip. Read on for eight tips for a productive hunting trip.

1. Plan

A well-devised plan can make the difference between going home empty-handed and a successful venture. Before you start your hunting trip, be sure to have a detailed plan of each element of your adventure, including transportation, location, schedule, and lodging.

Most hunting sites demand that hunters have permits and make reservations beforehand, so ensure that you research your area and procure the required necessities to hunt legally.  You could also determine what hunting game is in season and the available amenities to prepare accordingly. Be sure to also plan for the amount of time you intend to spend on every hunting location to ascertain that you remain fresh and alert, increasing the chances of success.

2. Choose appropriate clothing

Picking appropriate clothing for your hunting adventure gives you confidence and comfort throughout the trip, allowing you to enjoy the experience. When choosing the correct hunting gear, consider the current weather of the area you intend to go hunting so that you can pack accordingly. The hunting gear you use at home may differ from what you need if you want to track in a foreign country.

If you are unsure of the climatic condition of your hunting destination, be sure to layer clothing. This makes your garments flexible to the weather changes. You should also ensure that your hunting gear, especially the outer layers, complements the natural habitat you intend to visit. Check out Kryptek to shop for appropriate hunting gear.

3. Choose an appropriate weapon

You should always carry a weapon you are familiar with and confident in when hunting. When choosing an appropriate weapon, consider warranty, legal requirements, the gun weight, the type of animal you intend to hunt, and the budget. 

For a caliber, follow the service provider or an experienced hunter’s advice to make an accurate shot. You should also conduct enough practice to determine the correct pressure for your trigger, try various shooting positions, including prone, sitting, kneeling, or squatting, and shoot from different ranges to ensure that your target quarry drops on the spot. Shooting off your target triggers the animal to run away. 

4. Conceal your scent

The human scent often repels animals in the wilderness, so you should consider masking your odor. Before starting your hunt, use a scent-free soap to shower to mask your scent. Do not also use a strong fragrance as it will contaminate your hunting gear. Cover your hunting equipment with pines and leaves to camouflage your scent when on the hunting ground. Scents and aromas alert the target animal of your presence, triggering them to run away, which reduces the chances of a fruitful hunt.

5. Consider the direction of the wind

To increase the chances of a successful hunt, ensure that you pay close attention to the wind direction. This ensures that you stay downward of the target game to deter your scent from being wafted up to the prey. Being attentive to the wind can also help you find a target quickly. For instance, deers often follow thermals-warm winds. However, be careful not to cross the path of your target animal. If they sense your scent, they will change the track, making it more challenging to hit your target.

6. Move slowly

Animals and birds have excellent survival instincts. They can sense the slightest sound and the quickest maneuver better than human beings, so ensure that you make slow, noiseless movements towards your prey. You should also avoid any clothing that may produce noise to avoid triggering your target animal to take off. You give yourself enough time to take the best shot and catch the quarry unaware by making an unharried, soundless movement.

7. Clear your shooting lane

Once you identify your hunting base, practice your shooting positions for each direction from which you figure the quarry may appear. Next, clip off the branches and any obstacles from your line of fire, then assume a position that requires little or no movement to turn in the direction of your target. Ensure that your safety trap is fastened securely and allows maximum movement. For an accurate shot, be sure to use a hunting-grade shooting stick.

8. Do not overlook safety

Did you know there are 1,000 hunting accidents every year? Most hunters fail to take safety precaution measures while on the field just because they have a gun at hand. This results in fatal accidents and even death.

Always maintain a safe distance from a quarry when hunting, as animals can be aggressive and harmful when subjected to imminent danger. Be sure to inspect the hunting area beforehand to ensure there are no snakes, scorpions, and other dangerous animals. Prepare for emergencies by carrying appropriate first aid supplies, and remember to use your weapon appropriately to avoid injuring yourself.

Endnote

Few things can be more frustrating than going home empty-handed after a hunting trip. Implement the above strategies to score a game.